An anticipated London musical show has been called off after Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey’s departure.
On Monday, September 14, Variety reported that Empire Street Productions spokesperson announced that the London revival of Sunday in the Park with George, which was supposed to feature Grande and Bailey in the lead roles, has been cancelled following their exit.
In a statement shared by the producers, it was stated, "The planned 2027 production of 'Sunday in the Park with George' at the Barbican will no longer proceed as scheduled.”
"Empire Street Productions will retain the rights with a view to presenting the production in 2028. Further details will be announced in due course."
The show was set to return to London’s Barbican Center next summer, with the Eternal Sunshine hitmaker casted to play Dot and Marie, while the Bridgerton star was locked in as Geroge Seurat.
Tickets were initially planned to go on sale in May but were delayed until September due to expected high demand.
However, in August, Ariana Grande announced that she would step back from public appearances and withdrew from the production.
Shortly after her exit, Jonathan Bailey also confirmed that he was leaving the show, prompting the producers to cancel the revival.
In his official statement, the Wicked star announced, “Ari is one of my dearest friends, and my support for her is unwavering. Marianne is extraordinary and one of my longest collaborators and friends. After much consideration, I have decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George.”
He continued, “This brilliant, introspective musical has been a real passion project for me, and I feel incredibly lucky to have shared in its journey with this team. Among many things, the story explores the deep connection between George and Dot, a beautiful, devoted pairing, and I so look forward to seeing what the two actors who will now take on these roles will create with it.”
The 38-year-old English actor added, “I wish the very best to the entire company. I will be cheering them on as they continue with this production. Jonny x.”
About Sunday in the Park with George
Sunday in the Park with George is a 1984 musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine.
The show is inspired by the painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatt, created by Georges Seurat over two years between 1884 and 1886 employing the pointillist technique. The artwork depicts people of varying social classes strolling and relaxing in a Parisian park on the Seine.
